An explosion at a Pennsylvania factory has left one worker dead and two others injured. The accident occurred at the Mersen USA plant in Elk County after what management is calling “an equipment related accident.” The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. Mersen USA is known for making graphite-based materials, amongst other products.
This is a tragic accident, and one that illustrates the dangers faced by Pennsylvania’s workers on a daily basis. Though safety regulations and company policies seek to keep these workers safe, sometimes these safeguards are improperly implemented thereby creating unsafe working conditions. Other times unforeseen accidents occur even though all safety precautions have been taken. No matter how one is harmed, if workplace injuries occur, then a victim should consider acting on his or her legal rights.
Amongst an injured worker’s legal rights is the ability to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation benefits often include compensation for lost wages and medical expenses. This money can go a long way toward helping an injured worker obtain the care needed to treat his or her injuries, which may include permanent disability. It is hoped that such compensation will relieve an injured worker’s stress while giving him or her opportunity to reach a full recovery and return to work.
Though workers’ compensation is a beneficial program, many who try to take advantage of it are denied benefits. The reasons for denial can be wide-ranging, but it is important to note that a denial can be challenged. A Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can help an injured worker seek to overcome a denial by gathering evidence that shows the worker’s injuries were suffered while within the scope of his or her employment. After putting his or her own health on the line, workers who are injured owe it to themselves to seek the compensation they deserve.
Source: WJAC TV, “One dead in explosion at St. Marys business,” Jan. 30, 2014